John Surowiecki - Teachers Make a Difference - Norman Burgdorf

The transcript recounts a personal experience with Norman Burgdorf, a biology teacher at Francis T. Maloney High School. Known for his wit and intelligence, Burgdorf had a unique teaching style that involved humor and affection. The narrator shares an anecdote about a frog dissection where Burgdorf humorously advised against pursuing a career in surgery, highlighting his playful yet impactful teaching approach.

What subject did Norman Burgdorf teach at Francis T. Maloney High School?

• Biology

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Chemistry

How was Mr. Burgdorf's personality described in the transcript?

• Serious and strict

• Calm and quiet

• Shy and reserved

• Witty and intelligent

What was unique about Mr. Burgdorf's way of interacting with students?

• He was very strict and never joked.

• He made fun of students in a loving way.

• He ignored students most of the time.

• He was very formal and distant.

During the frog dissection, what did Mr. Burgdorf humorously advise the narrator?

• To become a scientist

• Not to become a surgeon

• To practice more dissections

• To study harder

What was the narrator's expectation when Mr. Burgdorf approached during the dissection?

• To be scolded

• To hear words of pity

• To be ignored

• To receive praise